Atherosclerosis: The Enemy Within

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While almost no one is immune to this disease, which hardens arteries, healthy habits can slow its progression.

By Sharonne N. Hayes, M.D., FACC

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Chest pain, shortness of breath, heart attack, and even stroke all present different symptoms, but often they all can be traced back to the same nasty culprit—atherosclerosis, also known as arteriosclerosis and as “hardening of the arteries.”

Atherosclerosis happens slowly over time. It occurs when the endothelium, the smooth inner layer of cells that line healthy arteries and regulate blood flow, becomes damaged due to:

• smoking
• high blood pressure
• high cholesterol
• diabetes
• advancing age
• high-fat meals

When the endothelium is damaged, the arteries become stiffer and less responsive. Gradually the endothelium becomes scarred and unable to completely repair itself after injury, leading to a buildup of plaque.

As the body ages, plaque deposits harden and can start protruding into the artery, impairing its ability to expand as well as blocking the flow of blood. Blood clots that form on plaque can completely block blood flow, causing a heart attack or stroke.